Urban Forestry and Energy Efficiency: A Case Study in Waterloo's Public Schools

Abstract

This capstone project delves into the intricate relationship between tree species, their canopy cover, and their impact on energy consumption within school buildings. Through an analysis of tree data surrounding school buildings, we quantified the average canopy cover for each school. Tree canopy covers by schools range from a sparse 5% to a lush 27.3%. Similarly, school buildings overlapped by tree canopy also vary. This study also examines the spatial arrangement of trees near buildings and elucidates how different tree species and their canopies influence school energy saving. It highlights how tree shading can affect carbon emissions and energy consumption for heating and cooling, thus underpinning the pivotal role of urban trees in enhancing energy efficiency in educational environments. In addition, a rational management strategy is given that serves as a cornerstone for future research to optimize green space management and urban planning, specifically tailored to bolster school energy conservation.